Parental Consent Prior to Abortion Passes Second Committee in Senate

SB 404 (Stargel) was heard by its second committee of reference, Senate Judiciary. After a lengthy period of testimony and a procedural move by an opponent that could have delayed a vote on the bill, it favorably passed the committee (3-2).

This legislation will ensure parents give consent before an abortion, as they must do before any surgical procedure for their child. Standards that relate to children's health care should apply especially in the context of abortion because of the life-altering decision it entails. When parental abuse is a concern, the minor can petition the court for a waiver from the consent requirement.

SB 404 has a third and final committee stop before it reaches the Senate floor. The companion bill in the House, HB 265 (Grall), passed its one committee of reference and is ready to be heard by the full House.
 
Please continue to urge your Florida lawmakers to support this legislation that recognizes the unique role of parents in the lives of their children.